An accident on a sidewalk can leave you with serious injuries, medical bills, and emotional trauma. In such cases, the question arises: who is responsible, and what can you do about it?
In Chicago, if you’ve been injured due to a dangerous condition on a sidewalk, hiring our experienced sidewalk accident attorney will make all the difference. We will ensure your rights are protected and that you receive relief!
Why Should You Choose Our Service?
When you are injured in a sidewalk accident, it is essential to have legal representation that understands the difficulties of sidewalk liability. We will tell you what to expect beforehand so there are no surprises.
Chicago Injury Lawyer can help you in several key ways:
1. Investigating the Accident
Our sidewalk attorney will look into the details of your accident. This means they will:
- Visit the accident site.
- Take photos.
- Talk to witnesses.
- Check records, like city maintenance logs or property ownership details, to understand what caused the accident.
2. Establishing Who is Responsible
It can be tricky to determine who is at fault for sidewalk accidents. Our attorney will gather evidence to prove:
- Who failed to maintain the sidewalk properly (like the property owner or city).
- How that failure caused your injury.
3. Dealing with Insurance Companies
After the accident, you may have to deal with insurance companies. Insurance adjusters often try to settle quickly for less money. Our attorney will:
- Handle all communications with the insurance company.
- Fight for a fair settlement to cover your hospital bills and other losses.
4. Filing a Lawsuit (If Needed)
Your attorney may suggest filing a lawsuit if a fair settlement can’t be reached. In Illinois, there are strict deadlines, so acting fast is essential. Our lawyer will ensure all the paperwork is filed on time and represent you in court if necessary.
5. Handling Government Challenges
Special legal protections may exist if the city or government is responsible for your injury. It makes it harder to sue them. Our attorney will know how to navigate Illinois rules of the road and ensure your claim is filed correctly.
Understanding Sidewalk Accidents: Why Do They Happen?
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), pedestrian fatalities and injuries have been rising in recent years. Sidewalk accidents can occur in a variety of ways, and many of them are preventable with proper maintenance and care. Some of the most common causes of sidewalk accidents include:
- Cracked or Broken Sidewalks:
Sidewalks with cracks, uneven surfaces, or missing chunks can create tripping hazards. These hazards are hazardous for pedestrians who may not see them coming. They can lead to severe injuries, especially for elderly individuals.
- Uneven Pavement:
Over time, tree roots, weather conditions, or poor installation can cause the pavement to rise or sink. Uneven sidewalks are one of the leading causes of trips and falls. Pedestrians can easily misjudge the height of the sidewalk and lose their balance.
- Ice and Snow:
In Illinois, harsh winter conditions are a fact of life. If property owners, municipalities, or businesses fail to clear ice and snow from sidewalks, they create dangerous, slippery surfaces. That can cause serious falls. Property owners are held liable when they neglect to maintain safe walking conditions.
- Obstructed Sidewalks:
Sidewalks can become obstructed by debris, branches, garbage, or even improperly parked vehicles. These obstacles block the path. They can cause pedestrians to trip, stumble, and fall, leading to injuries.
- Poor Lighting:
Insufficient lighting at night can make it difficult for pedestrians to see potential dangers on the sidewalk, such as cracks, uneven pavement, or fallen items. Without adequate lighting, people are more likely to trip and fall.
- Construction Zones:
Walkway streets near construction zones may become hazardous. Construction materials, tools, or changes in the walking path are unsafe. Unprotected open areas, roads, or poor signage can increase the risk of accidents.
Who Is Responsible for Sidewalk Maintenance in Chicago?
Understanding who is legally responsible is key to pursuing a sidewalk accident claim. The responsibility for maintaining sidewalks and following Illinois street parking laws is shared among citizens and several parties:
1. Municipalities (Local Governments)
Local governments are responsible for maintaining public sidewalks. If poor maintenance causes an injury, the government may be liable.
2. Property Owners
Property owners must maintain sidewalks next to their property. They could be held responsible if they neglect repairs and someone is injured.
3. Businesses
Business owners or managers are responsible for the sidewalks outside their stores. The business authority may be liable for injuries if the sidewalk is unsafe.
4. Contractors and Construction Workers
Contractors or construction workers may be responsible if the accident is caused by unsafe conditions during construction or repairs.
Common Injuries Caused by Sidewalk Accidents
Sidewalk accidents can lead to a variety of injuries, some of which may be severe and require long-term medical care. Ice- and snow-related falls are the most common, especially in urban areas.
Common injuries resulting from sidewalk accidents in Chicago include:
- Sprained or Fractured Ankles and Wrists: Falling and trying to catch yourself can result in sprains or fractures, especially in the ankle or wrist area.
- Head Injuries: Falling on a hard surface can lead to severe head injuries, including concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
- Back and Spine Injuries: Falls can lead to severe back or spinal cord injuries, which may cause long-term or permanent disability.
- Cuts and Bruises: Sidewalk accidents can lead to cuts, abrasions, and bruises from falling onto rough surfaces, debris, or nearby objects.
- Knee and Leg Injuries: Landing on the knees or legs during a fall can lead to sprains, fractures, or dislocations.
- Chronic Pain: Some sidewalk accidents may result in chronic pain from soft tissue damage, which can last for months or even years.
What to Do After a Sidewalk Accident
If you are injured in a sidewalk accident, take the following steps to protect your health and legal rights:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, seeking medical care right away is essential. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately but can worsen over time.
- Report the Incident: Report the sidewalk accident to the relevant authorities, such as your local government or the property owner. If there are witnesses, get their contact information.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the sidewalk, any risks, and your injuries. This documentation can be crucial in supporting your claim.
- Avoid Talking to Insurance Companies: Do not provide statements to insurance companies or admit fault at the scene. Consult with our attorney before speaking to insurers.
- Contact a Sidewalk Accidents Attorney: Contact a sidewalk accident attorney who can help guide you through the following steps as soon as possible.
Legal Rights of Sidewalk Accident Victims in Chicago
Victims of sidewalk accidents in Chicago can seek compensation for their injuries under the Premises Liability Act. Here’s a breakdown of them, including other options:
Illinois Premises Liability Act (740 ILCS 130)
The Premises Liability Act requires property owners to maintain their property, including sidewalks, in a reasonably safe condition for lawful visitors. This includes taking steps to repair hazards or warn pedestrians about dangers.
Both private property owners and municipalities can be held liable for failing to maintain sidewalks properly under this act. Victims have to file cases within two years.
Illinois Snow and Ice Removal Act (745 ILCS 75)
This law encourages property owners to remove snow and ice. However, it protects them from liability for injuries resulting from natural events unless their actions increase the hazard.
If a sidewalk accident involves ice or snow, liability often depends on whether the accumulation was natural or caused by human negligence.
Illinois Wrongful Death Act (740 ILCS 180)
If a sidewalk accident results in a fatality, surviving family members can file a Wrongful Death Lawsuit. Under this act, they get compensation for funeral bills, loss of companionship, and emotional suffering. This accusation must be filed within two years of the victim’s death.
From Injury to Resolution: Let Us Build Your Case!
Accidents can shatter lives, but you can rebuild with the right legal help. Our Chicago sidewalk accident attorney will fight to hold negligent parties accountable. They will work diligently to restore the stability you deserve!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a sidewalk accident?
A sidewalk accident occurs when a person is injured due to threats like cracks, uneven pavement, garbage, or ice on a sidewalk or pathway.
Can I sue the city if I fall on a public sidewalk?
Yes, you can sue a city and prove negligence under the Illinois Tort Immunity Act (745 ILCS 10/). However, municipalities are not liable for injuries caused by natural disasters.
Are snow and ice removal laws different for private and public sidewalks?
Yes. Under the Snow and Ice Removal Act (745 ILCS 75/), private owners are not liable for injuries caused by natural accumulations. But they must avoid creating additional dangers.
